Whitehall brings back five major players from last season's team and welcomes a promising group of juniors, creating optimism the Vikings can be real contenders at the conference and district level this spring.
The Vikings won all their league games except for the two against Oakridge last season and would love to take a shot at the West Michigan Conference Lakes title this time around.
Whitehall has a ton of experience at key positions. Megan LeaTrea has spent a lot of time in the circle and is back for her senior season, and Janie Fagan lines up at shortstop. Annabel Kevwitch will play catcher, Bella Fogus is at first base and Lianne Fagan is in center field.
"We anticipate these players will maintain their high level of performance and provide valuable experience," Whitehall coach Kyle McGrew said.
Three starters did graduate - Kierra Hyrns, Harper Leon and Muskegon Community College player Taylor Ottinger - but a tough group of juniors has been charged with picking up the baton from them, among them Kierra's sister Tyla Hyrns. Other names to watch include Becca Miller, Ryleigh Smith, Khloe Riley and Jalayah Hall.
"These juniors are showing great promise in the early part of the season, and I'm eager to see their contributions at the varsity level," McGrew said.
The team is looking forward to leaning on its team chemistry to help boost everyone's performance throughout the season.
"While we have goals like winning the conference title and district championship, the most exciting aspect is the team's strong mentality and desire to succeed together," McGrew said. "This cohesive approach will be the X-factor in determining our success."
A tough schedule should also help. The Vikings are excited for their doubleheader against defending league champ Oakridge May 15, which they'll get to host. April tests against Allendale and at the Ross Park Lakeshore Slam tournament should get Whitehall ready for the postseason tests to come.
